Assuming Hawkins goes pro here’s a thought - convince Newton to stay and move him to the two guard with Castle at point. If Newton has dreams of playing pro ball somewhere it would likely be as a shooting guard anyway. Newton would need to be able to adjust to being a little more aggressive scorer, but are we going to get a better player/potential in the portal? (we can still look for a potential bench sharp shooter).
If Hurley can get Newton comfortable in the 2 guard role it would mean better matchups for Newton as far as speed goes (both offensively and defensively), he has the height to play the position, he can hit deep threes, he can drive, and he is a very good passer. He’s not going to be Jordan Hawkins as far as shooting off screens, but he brings some other skills to the position.
If he could up his scoring 3-4 points a game in a slightly more aggressive role to 13-14 points and 3 or so assists I would be happy with that from the starting 2 guard (I think most of us would consider a transfer putting up those numbers successful). Imagine 4 passers in the starting lineup like Castle, Newton, Karaban and Jackson? Dunks all day for Donovan, and Im more than confident in Karaban and Newton hitting threes if Donovan kicks it out, and I think Castle (and hopefully Jackson) will be more than capable also.
If Solo Ball is good enough to get decent minutes at the 2 Newton could obviously play some backup point guard as well (or use Diarra if we need a lockdown defender).
